Got myself a "Golf Bag" that's worked 5 out of the 6 (one way) times. Only time I've been stopped was Maui Airport coming back with Hawaiian Air. Otherwise, SJC going out, SFO going out seem pretty chill.

Trick is to use curb side check in, in Honolulu if you use curb side they don't even weigh your bag. The tip (I'm usually pretty generous here) more than makes up for the $ you'd spend if they ask too many questions.

Just flew in to Los Barilles on Alaska. Only paid $20 for my boardbag with 2 surfboards and a twin tip plus wetsuits etc. They asked what it was and all I said was 'kite gear'. Never mentioned the word board or surf. Got lucky I guess.

Have always used a snowboard bag and two kites packed into one kite bag when going to Padre. Never paid a fee once, including a time when I was asked what it was and I said "a snowboard". Nowadays, though, with bag fees and needing to bring clothes (including often business/suit) I picked up a Naish Golf Bag (in the overly-conspicuous yellow). I packed it to 43 lbs and flew to Tel Aviv, no problems, but on return I was asked when checking it "what is it?". I said "golf bag", which I guess technically is not a lie since they didn't ask me what's inside.

From what I've seen, the main trick is not to make it too cumbersome by over-packing/over-weighting it. I went to Padre with a whole bunch of kiters with 'golf' bags once, and only one or two had to open or pay fees due to size & weight. Coincidentally we flew in with a collegiate golf team so the baggage folks already had their hands full...

Airline employees are like cops. Most of them are DICKS! but now and then they are cool and let that shit slide.... but most are DICKS!

Did I say most cops are DICKS!

(at gun point) Son- your not from around these parts are you??? So what are you hiding in these bags?? Can I open them??? Now I'm going to Take out your wallet and remove your Lic & Registration, you just STAY DOWN and RELAX... keep your hands on your head if you don't want to get hurt- Sooooo,.. I see your flying Cabrina- You boyz don't realize this is SlingShot Country... (the Kite Patrol)